The Prophet (ﷺ) prohibited the eating of donkey's meat on the day of the battle of Khaibar, and allowed the eating of horse flesh.
Prohibition of Donkey Meat
The prohibition of domestic donkey meat during the Battle of Khaibar was a temporary ruling specific to that occasion. Scholars differ whether this prohibition remains permanent or was abrogated. The stronger opinion is that it remains prohibited due to its impure nature and the wisdom of preserving these animals for transportation and agricultural work.
Permissibility of Horse Meat
The permission to consume horse flesh demonstrates its purity and lawful status. This ruling is established through multiple authentic narrations. Horses, while noble creatures, are permissible for consumption when properly slaughtered according to Islamic guidelines, though some scholars consider it makruh (disliked) due to their value in jihad and transportation.
Context of Khaibar
The Battle of Khaibar occurred in the 7th year after Hijrah. The temporary prohibition served multiple wisdoms: distinguishing between pure and impremeat, testing the obedience of the companions, and preventing waste of valuable resources during military campaign when donkeys were essential for transport.
Juridical Implications
This hadith establishes important principles in Islamic jurisprudence: the permissibility of horse meat remains uncontested among the majority of scholars, while domestic donkey meat is generally considered unlawful. Wild donkeys (onagers), however, are permissible according to most scholars based on other authentic narrations.